What steps can we take to "repent and perform the deeds" we did? The Call From Jesus—Revelation 2:5 “Therefore remember how far you have fallen; repent and perform the deeds you did at first. But if you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.” Step 1: Remember Where You Were—Holy Remembrance • Pause and deliberately recall the freshness of your early walk with Christ—moments when love for Him motivated every choice (Psalm 143:5). • Reflect on the distance between that former zeal and any present coldness. Honest memory ignites longing for restoration (Lamentations 3:21). • Keep a written record of God’s past faithfulness; thanksgiving stirs affection (Psalm 103:2). Step 2: Repent—Turn With Godly Sorrow • Repentance (Greek metanoeō) is a change of mind proven by a change of direction (Acts 3:19). • Allow the Spirit to produce “godly sorrow” that leads to salvation without regret (2 Corinthians 7:10). • Confess specific sins—neglected worship, compromised holiness, forgotten compassion (1 John 1:9; Proverbs 28:13). Step 3: Repeat the First Works—Practical Renewal Return to the habits that once fanned your love for Christ: • Unhurried Scripture reading—daily intake (Jeremiah 15:16). • Fervent prayer—speak candidly, listen attentively (Colossians 4:2). • Joyful obedience—quick, wholehearted responses to known commands (John 14:21). • Active service—meeting needs in His name (Galatians 6:9–10). • Bold witness—sharing the gospel out of overflow, not obligation (Acts 1:8). Step 4: Restore Fellowship With the Body • Re-engage the church family; mutual encouragement guards against relapse (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Seek accountability from mature believers (James 5:16). • Use spiritual gifts for the common good; serving others revives joy (1 Peter 4:10). Step 5: Rekindle Love Daily • Meditate on Christ’s love expressed at the cross (Romans 5:8). • Keep short accounts—immediate confession keeps hearts soft (Psalm 139:23-24). • Build yourself up “in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit” (Jude 20-21). Promises and Warnings—Motivation to Persevere • Jesus rewards steadfast love with intimate fellowship and eternal fruit (John 15:5, 8). • Neglect invites discipline: “I will come… and remove your lampstand” (Revelation 2:5). • A revived heart glorifies God now and secures an unfading crown later (1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 2 Timothy 4:7-8). Act on these steps promptly; restored love today safeguards tomorrow’s witness and joy. |
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